Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea linked with switch to Real Madrid

Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea in action for the Spain under-21s (GETTY IMAGES)

David De Gea is being lined-up as the long-term replacement for Iker Casillas at Real Madrid according to reports today.

The young Spaniard, signed by Manchester United as a replacement for Edwin van der Sar, has failed to cement his place as the number one choice at Old Trafford. Manager Alex Ferguson is currently opting to rotate the 21-year-old he signed for £18.3m with Anders Lindegaard on a regular basis.

There are rumours that the former Atletico Madrid stopper is homesick in Manchester, and Real are willing to offer him a return to the Spanish capital. The La Liga champions and their manager Jose Mourinho have a close relationship with De Gea's agent Jorge Mendes, a situation they may be able to exploit if they choose to make a move.

Earlier this month, De Gea admitted that his current situation at Old Trafford is tough.

"I am working flat-out every day because I need to regain the confidence of the coach.

"For me, a training session is a match and after that it is necessary for me to show what levels I can achieve in games.

"I ended last season satisfied with my work for Manchester United, but it is quite normal to go back to zero at the start of the following season.

"I don't believe I have been at the top in the last couple of months but with each game I am rediscovering my level.

"I accept the manager's decision. If he considers Anders [Lindegaard] as No 1 it is not a problem for me I only want to play and maintain my challenge for the position."

Casillas, who captained Spain to the World Cup and two European Championships, has stated in the past that he sees De Gea as his successor at international level.